Let There Be Light - Choosing Windows for your Log Home.

Let There Be Light! – Choosing windows for your Log Home

Most folks like LOTS of windows in their log cabin home in order to let the “outdoors” in.  Whether its beautiful views of mountains, lakes, meadows or trees from your building site, windows allows Mother Nature to come inside your home and become part of your environment.

Since this blog discusses solid log wall construction, which is very energy efficient, we should also be talking about energy efficient windows!  Did you know about 30% of energy loss in any home (frame construction, block construction, log construction, etc) is through windows and doors?  Why would you consider building an energy efficient log home and then put inefficient, inexpensive windows in?

You can reduce this energy loss by using quality energy efficient windows.  Most window manufacturers make different series of windows to choose from.  You usually have a choice ranging from an entry level window (usually all wood or vinyl with clear glass) to Premium level (usually wood construction with the exterior clad in metal or vinyl with Low-E or upgraded glazing on or in the glass). 

At Appalachian Log Structures Inc. we have chosen to include JELD-WEN SiteLine-EX windows – their Premium window.  Not only are the windows extremely energy efficient but also are made from AuraLast treated wood materials offering a 20-year warranty against rot.  In addition they come in a variety of exterior clad colors as well as offering other options in hardware, grilles, glazing, etc.  Our approach is to offer our clients quality, energy efficient materials up-front and then let the customer determine the level of quality they want.

When comparing log home manufacturers quality of included materials – don’t assume that all packages are created equal, or that all windows that may be included are created equal.  If you are looking for energy efficiency, low maintenance and windows constructed of wood that has a warranty against rot – you’ll need to ask questions and get the facts before making the right decision.  Call 866-LOG-HOME or your local Log Home Consultant to discover more about the windows and other log home building materials we offer.